Volume 23 - Issue 14 :: Jul. 15-28, 2006
LEGISLATION
Rights and promises http://www.frontline.in/fl2314/stories/20060728000706400.htm
ASHISH KOTHARI
In 2005, after a considerably acrimonious public debate, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs had tabled the Scheduled Tribes (Recognition of Forest Rights) Bill for parliamentary approval. The objective of the Bill was to provide the tribal people rights to forest land already occupied by them, as also secure access to forest produce essential for their survival and livelihoods. There was no doubt in most people's minds that legislation to undo the historical injustices meted out to Adivasis was necessary. http://www.frontline.in/fl2314/stories/20060728000706400.htm